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The Best Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Two perfectly golden and fluffy ricotta pancakes stacked on a light-colored plate near a sunny window.

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Make light, fluffy, and tender ricotta pancakes infused with bright lemon flavor. This easy recipe delivers cafe-style texture quickly for your weekend brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 large eggs, separated
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter, plus more for the griddle
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Whisk these dry ingredients together.
  2. In a separate large bowl, whisk the ricotta cheese, egg yolks, milk, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
  3. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
  4. In a clean, small bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  5. Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the batter in two additions. Work gently to keep the air in the mixture for maximum fluffiness.
  6. Heat a lightly buttered griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  7. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Flip only once.
  8. Serve immediately with fresh berries and maple syrup, perhaps with an extra squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

  • For extra fluffiness, let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking.
  • If you prefer a less tangy flavor, omit the optional lemon juice in the serving suggestion.
  • You can blend the wet ingredients in a blender for a very smooth batter, but be careful not to over-blend once the flour is added.
  • These pancakes freeze well; cool completely, then place parchment paper between layers in a freezer bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven.

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